Income Generating Potentials of Street Food Vending Businesses in Ogun State, Nigeria
Abstract
Street foods businesses have become common and important features of urban towns in many developing countries including Nigeria. Apart from providing incomes for those involved, they also provide a ready source of food for the urban population. This study determined the profitability of the street food business in southwest Nigeria. Since food safety is now an integral part of food security, the study also assessed the hygienic practices of the vendors. Married women in their early forties dominate the sector. Most of them had primary education, did not belong to any food vending associations. The cost and returns analysis showed that the businesses are profitable with average monthly profits of N28, 023.35, profit margin on sale of 12.3% per month and a rate of return on investment of 13.4 % per month. Some of the vendors used family labour, but on the average, daily wages were about N 125.00. Indeed most vendors possess operating licences but the environment and facilities under which the meals are prepared are not constantly monitored to ensure good hygienic practices. It is recommended that the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration (NAFDAC) should extend its efforts to the street food sector and engage in training and education of food vendors on safe food handling and preparation.
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